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Mediterranean Rice and Beans

Mediterranean Rice and Beans: Comfort in Every Bite

Mediterranean Rice and Beans is a nutrient-rich, customizable dish that combines protein-packed beans with hearty rice for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 bowl
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

For the Rice Base
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice or basmati rice for a fragrant twist
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil for a different flavor
For the Aromatics
  • 1 medium chopped onion yellow or sweet onion is recommended
  • 2 cloves minced garlic adjust based on preference
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium diced bell pepper any color for visual appeal
  • 1 medium chopped tomato can use canned diced tomatoes if fresh isn't available
  • 2 cups fresh spinach kale can be used as an alternative
For the Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or chili powder in a pinch
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano key for Mediterranean flavor
  • salt to taste
  • pepper to taste
For the Protein
  • 1 can chickpeas drained
  • 1 can cannellini beans drained
For Serving
  • ½ piece lemon juice
  • fresh parsley or mint for garnish
  • crumbled feta cheese, olives, or pine nuts optional toppings

Equipment

  • large skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 chopped medium onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  2. Stir in 1 diced bell pepper and 1 chopped medium tomato. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables soften.
  3. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon each of ground cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well, and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add 1 cup of long-grain white rice, mixing thoroughly with the vegetables. Stir continuously for about 1 minute.
  5. Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth or water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the rice is tender.
  6. Gently fold in 1 can of chickpeas and 1 can of cannellini beans, along with 2 cups of chopped fresh spinach. Cover and let sit for about 5 minutes to meld flavors.
  7. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the mixture and garnish with parsley or mint. Add optional toppings if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 400kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 15gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gSodium: 500mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 12gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 2000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 100mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Customize with seasonal vegetables and different beans for a unique flavor experience.

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